The Science of Reading: Beyond Hashtags and Headlines

The conversation about the science of reading has evolved—and district leaders are leading the charge. At Lexia's 2025 Science of Reading Leadership Summits, more than 250 administrators came together to engage with the research, urgency, and strategy needed to build sustainable, systemwide literacy improvement.

This foundational session, The Science of Reading: Beyond Hashtags and Headlines, underscores the evidence behind high-impact instructional practices. From frameworks like the Simple View of Reading and Scarborough's Reading Rope to the work of researchers like Dr. Shayne Piasta, attendees explored what it takes to build effective reading systems: Explicit, systematic, and adaptable instruction that meets diverse student needs across time.

The data is clear: While 95% of students can become proficient readers, only a fraction currently do—especially among historically marginalized groups. District leaders must act now to shift from reactive remediation to proactive prevention. That starts with well-prepared teachers, informed leaders, and evidence-based decision-making at every level.

For more than 40 years, Lexia® has supported educators and administrators with research-proven solutions that accelerate literacy outcomes. This session offers more than just insights, it’s a call to action for district leaders committed to equity, excellence, and literacy for all. Whether you joined us or not, these takeaways are essential for your strategic planning.